POLICE are trying to a find a man who prevented a robbery and chased and held a suspect.

The man was one of a number of people who responded to cries for help from a 57-year-old woman, who was being robbed in the street in Redcar, east Cleveland.

Minutes earlier, a 16-year-old girl had been robbed in the same town, and police have linked the two crimes.

The teenager was walking in Muriel Street, at about 2.15pm on Saturday, when two male youths on bicycles wrenched her handbag from her. Police said she that was left shaken and upset.

About 15 minutes later, the 57-year-old was attacked by two males who tried to take her handbag. The woman shouted for help and several people went to her aid.

One man managed to grab hold of one of the youths and sustained minor injuries.

The second youth managed to escape.

Detective sergeant Nick Owen, of Redcar Police, appealed for those who helped and witnesses to come forward.

He said: "As a result of these incidents, we have one badly shaken young girl and a second lady who had to receive treatment at James Cook University Hospital for arm injuries.

"I would like to warn those members of the public shopping in the town centre who may be carrying shopping and handbags to be very aware of persons around you and to keep a firm hold of your belongings at all times."

Anyone with any information on either incident is asked to call Redcar Police on (01642) 302626.

l Police in Redcar yesterday charged two male youths, both aged 18, with two charges of robbery.